What's Next For Wii U?

The Wii U has gotten off to a bit of a slow start, with the release of new games slowing down to a trickle in recent months. However, Nintendo has plenty planned for 2013. We break down what new games and services players can expect as the second wave of Wii U software approaches.

Note: This article originally appeared in the February issue of Game Informer magazine (issue 238), but has been updated with new information from Nintendo's Wii U Direct press conference.

Pikmin
3
SpringPikmin 3 was one of the most celebrated
showings at Nintendo's E3 2012 press conference. As in previous installments,
players command groups of the adorable creatures to solve puzzles, traverse
the environment, and defeat bosses. Curiously, Nintendo recommends playing
Pikmin 3 with a Wii remote and nunchuk, but confirmed it can also be played
exclusively with the GamePad.

Rayman
LegendsFebruary 26Announced as a Wii U exclusive, Rayman
Legends is the direct sequel to 2011's acclaimed Rayman Origins. Similar to New
Super Mario Bros. U, Rayman Legends allows a fifth player to aid friends by
triggering interactive objects, nabbing collectibles, and tripping up enemies
via the GamePad's touchscreen.

Aliens:
Colonial MarinesFebruary 12Gearbox Software has been vocal in its
enthusiasm for Wii U, and Aliens: Colonial Marines makes it easy to see why.
The GamePad's touchscreen is perfect for the franchise, functioning as an
in-game map and replicating the series' iconic motion tracker.

Wii
Fit USummerOne of the first games
demoed by Nintendo for its new system, Wii Fit U allows players to use the
GamePad in conjunction with the Wii Balance Board to perform a variety of
exercise-focused minigames. Nintendo announced Wii Fit U as a "launch window"
title, which means players should have it by March at the latest.

Lego
City UndercoverMarch 18The latest Lego game from
Traveller's Tales breaks with tradition by giving players an open-world city to
explore. As Officer Chase McCain, players bust criminals and Lego blocks alike,
while donning a variety of costumes that unlock unique abilities.

The
Wonderful 101Early 2013Formerly known as Project
P-100, Platinum Games' The Wonderful 101 tasks players with repelling alien
invaders via a swarm of superheroes. The cartoony brawler allows you to recruit
new citizens to strengthen your mob and perform united super attacks by swiping
gestures on the GamePad's touchscreen.

Coming Up Next: Nintendo pushes the boundaries of what gamers can do with their fingers, teases a JRPG mash-up, and announces two no-brainers fans will go bonkers over...